How many broken wires must be present in one stand on one lay to remove running wire rope from service?

The standard for removing running wire rope from service is based on the number of broken wires present in a single stand of one lay. In the case of tower crane operations, the correct number of broken wires that necessitate removal of the wire rope is four.

This standard is in place to ensure safety and structural integrity during crane operations. A wire rope is composed of multiple strands, and each strand consists of numerous wires. If a certain number of wires are broken within a single stand, it can compromise the rope's strength and performance, leading to potential failure during operation. Therefore, finding four broken wires in one lay indicates a significant deterioration of the material, warranting immediate replacement to maintain safety protocols and prevent accidents.

Observing this guideline is crucial for crane operators to ensure the safety of both the crew and the equipment during lifting operations.